Eintracht Frankfurt is set to face Holstein Kiel in their upcoming Bundesliga match, aiming to break a streak of three draws. Coach Dino Toppmöller emphasizes the team’s eagerness for victory as they prepare for this favorable matchup, especially given Kiel’s struggles with injuries. Key players for Frankfurt include Elye Wahi, while Kiel’s Phil Harres has emerged as a standout performer. The match is crucial for both teams, with Frankfurt looking to maintain their strong record against promoted sides.
Eintracht Frankfurt Aims for Victory Against Holstein Kiel in Bundesliga Clash
After a series of three consecutive draws, Eintracht Frankfurt is eager to secure a win in the Bundesliga. Their upcoming match against Holstein Kiel appears to be a promising opportunity on paper. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting fixture.
The Current Scenario
Eintracht is determined to taste victory once more, having settled for draws in their last three Bundesliga outings. Coach Dino Toppmöller expressed the team’s desire, stating, “We just want to feel the victory again.” After a period of intense competition, the coaching staff and players have successfully focused on thorough preparations and intensive training in anticipation of the weekend match.
On paper, Holstein Kiel seems to be a favorable opponent, especially given their current struggles with multiple injuries. The Frankfurt team will look to draw on their positive memories from the first leg of the season, especially since Kiel sits near the bottom of the table and has yet to secure a win in away matches.
Team News and Absences
Eintracht will be without their key defender Robin Koch for this matchup. Toppmöller confirmed, “Unfortunately, he is not an option yet.” Igor Matanovic will also miss out, and Junior Dina Ebimbe is still catching up on training. The availability of Ellyes Skhiri remains uncertain due to a rib injury sustained in the last game against Gladbach.
Projected Starting XI for Eintracht: Trapp – Kristensen, Tuta, Theate – Larsson, Höjlund – Knauff, Brown – Götze – Wahi, Ekitiké.
Holstein Kiel’s coach Marcel Rapp is facing his own challenges with several players unavailable. Key absentees include Alexandr Bernhardsson (patellar tendon), Patrick Erras (concussion), Marvin Schulz (adductor injury), and Colin Kleine-Bekel (ACL tear). Additionally, Steven Skrzybski is sidelined due to muscle issues, and winter signing John Tolkin will not participate due to thigh complications.
Projected Starting XI for Kiel: Weiner – Becker, Zec, Komenda – Remberg – Rosenboom, Porath, Holtby, Tolkin – Machino – Harres.
Coaches’ Insights
Marcel Rapp: “We would have taken this position at the start of the season if we were just one point away from the relegation spot with 12 or 13 games left. Some may have thought Kiel was already out of the race, but our trend is upward. We are competing and earning points, and we are still in it.”
Key Players to Watch
Could Elye Wahi make his starting debut for Eintracht against Kiel? It’s a strong possibility! Toppmöller has praised the newcomer, stating, “His training impressions are very positive. In the internal test, he scored two goals and demonstrated impressive offensive plays.” Wahi’s integration into the team has been seamless, and fans can expect to see him shine in this match.
On the other side, Phil Harres, who wasn’t part of the squad in the first leg, has emerged as a vital player for Kiel. With seven goals and two assists to his name, he has become the team’s top scorer and playmaker. Harres remarked, “Everything feels a bit surreal. I never thought things would go so well for me.” His performance could pose a challenge for Eintracht, especially in the absence of their defensive leader.
Historical Context
Eintracht Frankfurt has a strong track record against promoted teams. In the first half of this season, they achieved victories over Kiel and St. Pauli. Impressively, Frankfurt has remained unbeaten in their last 13 matches against promoted sides, with the club’s best record being 15 consecutive games without a loss between 2008 and 2012.
How to Stay Updated on the Match
You can catch the action of Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Holstein Kiel through various platforms. Follow the live ticker and audio stream for real-time updates. The match will also be available for viewing on the pay-TV channel Dazn.